AU2023376286B2

AU2023376286B2 - Surf leash cuff and surf leash assembly

Info

Publication number: AU2023376286B2
Application number: AU2023376286A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Yongkang WU
Original assignee: Nantong Shakamma Sports Goods Co Ltd
Current assignee: Nantong Shakamma Sports Goods Co Ltd
Priority date: 2022-11-11
Filing date: 2023-10-18
Publication date: 2026-02-05
Anticipated expiration: 2043-10-18
Also published as: CN118062172A; WO2024099042A1; US20240158054A1; JP3253150U; JP2026035839A; US12409913B2; AU2023376286A1

Abstract

A surf leash cuff (1) and a surf leash assembly. The surf leash cuff (1) comprises a cuff body (11), comprising a first section (111), a second section (112) and a pull ring (113), the first section (111) being connected to the first end of the second section (112), a first leash fitting portion (1111) being arranged on the outer side surface of the first section (111), the second end of the second section (112) being connected to the pull ring (113), and the cuff body (11) being an integrally formed member; a first fixing member (12) fixed to the first section (111) of the cuff body (11); and a second fixing member (13) fixed to the second section of the cuff body (11), the second fixing member (13) being detachably connected to the first fixing member (12). Providing the integrally formed cuff body (11) improves the fitting strength between the main portion of the cuff body (11), the first leash fitting portion (1111) and the pull ring (113), thus achieving a simpler assembly process.

Description

SURF LEASH CUFF AND SURF LEASH ASSEMBLY

TECHNICAL FIELD [0001]The present disclosure relates to surf leash technology, and more particularly to a surf leash cuff and a surf leash assembly. 2023376286

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002]Surf leash assemblies are essential safety accessories used in surfing to connect a surfboard to the user's body, preventing the board from drifting away. A conventional surf leash assembly typically consists of a cuff, a cord, and a board connector. The cuff is secured to a body part such as the ankle, wrist, or leg, while the board connector attaches to the surfboard. [0003]However, existing surf leash assemblies suffer from several significant drawbacks. First, the manufacturing process is complex, as it requires assembling multiple components, including a fabric cuff body, a cooperating member, a pull handle, and two fixing components. This increases production costs and complexity. Second, the structural integrity of the cuff is often insufficient. The connection between different components, particularly the cooperating member, may fail under high stress, causing unexpected detachment and compromising user safety. Third, excessive external forces can lead to accidental separation of the cooperating member from the cuff body, posing serious safety risks. Lastly, the emergency release mechanism's reliability is compromised by the pull handle, which is not easily identifiable and may detach unexpectedly. If this occurs, the cuff may not release as intended, hindering the user's ability to quickly remove the leash in an emergency situation. [0004]These shortcomings highlight the need for an improved surf leash assembly that offers a simplified manufacturing process, enhanced structural durability, and a more reliable emergency release mechanism.

2 17 Dec 2025

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005]The present invention provides an improved surf leash cuff and a surf leash assembly that address several shortcomings found in conventional designs, including weak structural connections, complex multi-part assembly, and unreliable emergency release functionality. [0006]The surf leash cuff comprises a one-piece, integrally molded cuff body 2023376286

that includes a first section, a second section, and a pull handle member. The first section is connected to one end of the second section, and the pull handle member is connected to the opposite end. A cooperating member for connecting to the cord is provided on the outer surface of the first section. The cuff also includes a first fixing member secured to the first section and a second fixing member secured to the second section. These fixing members are separably connectable, allowing the cuff to form a closed loop around a user's body part, such as the ankle or wrist. [0007]The cuff body is manufactured using a single-step molding process, typically with thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer (TPU), resulting in a high-strength, flexible structure. The integrally molded construction improves the connection strength between critical components — such as the cooperating member and pull handle — while significantly reducing assembly steps and increasing production efficiency. [0008]To enhance safety and comfort, the inner surface of the cuff may include a contact member made of soft, cushioning material (e.g., neoprene or EVA), optionally with anti-slip patterns. The cuff may also feature a curved or arched shape, preformed or flexible, to better conform to the user's body surface. [0009]The pull handle is designed for quick release in emergencies, with its orientation optimized to allow users to easily locate and operate it under pressure. Variants include different handle shapes and insertion directions (perpendicular or parallel to the body), enhancing usability during both recreational and competitive use, as well as in hazardous situations. [0010]The surf leash assembly further comprises a cord with cooperating members at both ends, a board connector, and a connecting ring. The board connector features an integrally molded body including a cooperating member and bearing portions, and a multi-component fixing structure that connects securely to

3 17 Dec 2025

the cord and the connecting ring. This connector design improves durability and prevents accidental separation during use. The fixing structure may include multiple fixing members and connecting strips, arranged to reinforce the connector's integrity while maintaining flexibility for movement. [0011]Together, these features provide a surf leash system that offers enhanced structural strength, simplified manufacturing, increased user comfort, and a more 2023376286

reliable emergency release mechanism.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012]The accompanying drawings illustrate various embodiments of the present disclosure, providing a clearer understanding of its features and advantages:

FIG. 1 is a structural schematic view of a surf leash assembly according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a structural schematic view showing a cuff cooperating with a cord in the first embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a structural schematic view of the cuff in the first embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a schematic view showing the outer surface of the cuff when spread out in the first embodiment.

FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the cuff in the first embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a schematic view showing the inner surface of the cuff when spread out in the first embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a structural schematic view of the board connector in the first embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a schematic view showing the board connector when spread out in the first embodiment.

4 17 Dec 2025

FIG. 9 is an exploded view of the board connector in the first embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a structural schematic view of the board connector cooperating with the cord in the first embodiment.

FIGS. 11-13 are schematic views of the cuff body in a second embodiment, showing different pull handle member shapes. 2023376286

FIGS. 14 and 15 are structural schematic views of the cuff in a third embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0013]The following embodiments are described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The concepts of the present disclosure can be implemented in various forms and should not be limited to the embodiments described. These embodiments are provided to facilitate a full understanding of the disclosure. Identical reference numerals in the figures refer to the same or similar elements, and repeated descriptions are omitted. Terms such as "up," "down," and "between" are used for convenience and refer to the orientation in the accompanying drawings. These do not impose specific spatial limitations. The terms "first" and "second" are used for identification only and do not imply any order or importance. [0014]As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a surf leash cuff 1 and a surf leash assembly are provided. The leash assembly comprises the cuff 1, a cord 2, a board connector 3, and a connecting ring 4. The cuff 1 is fixed to a user’s body part, such as the ankle or wrist. The cord 2 connects the cuff 1 to the board connector 3, which attaches to a surfboard via the connecting ring 4. The cuff 1 includes a one-piece molded cuff body 11, a first fixing member 12, and a second fixing member 13. The fixing members 12 and 13 are disposed at opposite ends of the cuff body and can be fastened together to form a secure loop. [0015]Referring to FIGS. 2 to 6, the cuff body 11 comprises a first section 111, a second section 112, and a pull handle member 113. The first section 111 connects to one end of the second section 112. The first fixing member 12 is

5 17 Dec 2025

secured to the end of the first section 111. An outward-facing cooperating member 1111 is disposed on the outer surface of the first section 111 and is molded integrally with the cuff body 11 for attaching the cord. The second end of the second section 112 is connected to the pull handle member 113. The cuff body 11 is integrally formed as a one-piece structure, improving manufacturing and durability. 2023376286

[0016]The first cooperating member 1111 protrudes from the cuff body and includes pin holes 1112. It mates with a second cooperating member 21 on the cord 2, which has a corresponding pin hole 211. The two parts are fixed using a pin, so that the cooperating members are securely connected, and rotational freedom between the cord 2 and the cuff 1 is provided by a conventional swivel fitting in the cord 2 as is apparent to the skilled person from the drawings. The cooperating member 21 can be metal or plastic. Other connection methods are also within the scope of the disclosure. [0017]The second fixing member 13 is fixed to the second section 112 and can partially overlap its inner or outer surface. The pull handle member 113 is attached to the second section. The cuff body 11 is produced via a single-step molding process using materials such as thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer (TPU), enhancing both strength and efficiency. [0018]The first and second fixing members are separably connected, for example using hook-and-loop fasteners. The components can also be secured using snaps, buttons, or threaded connectors. During use, the cuff wraps around the user’s body, and the fixing members close to form a loop. The ends of the cuff body and fixing members are arranged to overlap for structural strength and 360-degree coverage. Rotation between the cord 2 and the cuff 1 is provided by the swivel fitting located in the cord 2 upstream of the second cooperating member 21, as shown in the drawings. [0019]The pull handle member 113 is designed for emergency release. It can be easily grasped and pulled outward to quickly separate the fixing members and release the cuff. Different orientations of the pull handle opening assist the user in locating and operating the handle quickly, as illustrated in the embodiments. The design allows for simple and quick removal, especially under stress or in emergency situations.

6 17 Dec 2025

[0020]The inner and outer surfaces of the cuff components are defined relative to the user's body during use. The inner surface faces the body; the outer surface faces away. FIG. 4 illustrates the length (D1) and width (D2) directions of the cuff. [0021]The integrally molded design improves the connection strength between key components such as the cooperating member 1111 and the pull 2023376286

handle 113, ensuring that both can withstand significant force. Simplified assembly reduces the risk of failure and increases production efficiency. Only the fixing members need to be attached, as the cuff body, cooperating member, and pull handle are molded as a single unit. [0022]The cuff body may be made of TPU, but other materials like PVC or TPE may also be used. These materials offer high strength and flexibility. [0023]Existing cuffs often remain straight due to rigid cooperating parts, limiting their ability to fit the user’s body. In contrast, the first section 111 of the present cuff is arched, and the second section is flexible, allowing the cuff to better conform to the user's body shape. The cooperating member is thicker for strength, while the body remains thin and flexible. [0024]The second section 112 may include a hollow portion 1123 between two arms 1121 and 1122, improving flexibility and reducing weight. The outer surface of the second fixing member may include a reinforcing strip or be exposed through the hollow portion. The hollow region can be a continuous strip, grid, or segmented openings. As shown in the drawings, the hollow portion 1123 lies between the first arm 1121 and the second arm 1122 and may expose part of a reinforcing strip of the second fixing member. [0025]Traditional pull handles are sewn and may deform or detach. In this design, the pull handle member 113 (pull ring)is molded integrally with the second section and spans both arms, creating a wider, more rigid opening. This improves usability and prevents deformation. [0026]The cuff components, including the contact member 14 on the inner surface, preferably share a consistent width to maintain a streamlined profile. However, the contact member can be slightly wider to improve comfort and avoid contact with hard plastic edges. The cuff can be assembled by sewing or gluing the fixing members and contact member to the molded body.

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[0027]The board connector 3 connects to the other end of the cord and the surfboard via the connecting ring 4. It includes a one-piece molded body 31, with a cooperating member 311 and bearing portions 312 and 313. The connector avoids separation of components and simplifies manufacturing. The fixing components 32, 33, 34 and connecting strips 35, 36 correspond to those shown in FIGS. 8–10. 2023376286

[0028]The board connector body 31 is formed using a one-step molding process and may be made of TPU or similar materials. It houses fixing components such as fixing members 32, 33, 34, and connecting strips 35, 36. These allow flexible but strong attachment of the connecting ring 4. Rotation between the cord 2 and the board connector 3 is provided by a conventional swivel fitting located in the cord 2 adjacent the third cooperating member 22, as shown in the drawings. [0029]Hook-and-loop fasteners or alternative connection means (e.g., snaps or buttons) may be used between fixing members. The connecting ring passes through the fixing assembly and is secured in place. The structure ensures strong retention while allowing for controlled detachment. [0030]The cord connects to the board connector via fabric strips looped through mating holes in the cooperating members. These strips are sewn in place for added strength. The structure may be simplified further by combining strips where appropriate. [0031]The second and third embodiments modify the shape and layout of the pull handle for better ergonomics. For instance, the pull handle may be positioned for insertion parallel to the body, improving usability in competitive or emergency conditions. [0032]The pull handle may take various shapes such as sector, diamond, circle, or trapezoid. In the third embodiment, the orientation of the hole is parallel to the user’s limb, making it faster to locate and operate in critical moments. [0033]This design provides significant improvements in structural integrity, ease of use, and safety. Variations and modifications are possible within the scope of the disclosure. [0034]The connection structure between the third cooperating member 22 and the fourth cooperating member 311 is shown in FIGS. 9 and 10. A first

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connecting strip 35 made from fabric is inserted into the third pin hole 221 of the third cooperating member 22, and its two ends are closed together and inserted into a through hole 3111 of the fourth cooperating member 311. These ends extend to the first bearing portion 312 and are secured by sewing. After the third and fifth fixing members are attached to the first bearing portion 312, the third fixing member 32 covers the connecting strip 35. Alternative embodiments may 2023376286

use different connecting structures, including those similar to the connection between the first cooperating member 1111 and the second cooperating member 21. [0035]In one embodiment, the first connecting strip 35 and the second connecting strip 36 can be formed from the same fabric strip. The strip passes through the through hole 3111 of the fourth cooperating member 311, extends to the second bearing portion 313, and connects to the fourth fixing member 33. Alternatively, two separate fabric strips may be used. [0036]FIGS. 11 to 13 illustrate a second embodiment in which the second section 112 and pull handle member 113 differ from the first embodiment. The second section 112 includes a transition portion 1125 and an intermediate arm 1124. The first end of the intermediate arm 1124 connects to the first section 111 via the transition portion 1125, located at the midpoint of the first section 111 in the width direction. The second end of the intermediate arm 1124 carries the pull handle member 113. The intermediate arm 1124 has a reduced width compared to the first section 111 to increase flexibility. [0037]FIGS. 11 to 13 show that the pull handle member 113 can take various shapes, including a sector (FIG. 11), diamond (FIG. 12), circle (FIG. 13), or other geometries such as triangle or trapezoid. The shape of the transition portion 1125 may match or differ from that of the pull handle member 113. [0038]FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrate a third embodiment similar to the second, wherein the second section 112 includes a transition portion 1125 and an intermediate arm 1124. In contrast with the first embodiment, the third embodiment alters the insertion direction of the pull handle member 113 to optimize usability. [0039]The pull handle is used in various scenarios. In normal use, the user can take time to locate and pull the handle. In competitions, rapid detachment is

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needed to prepare for the next event. In emergencies, the user must quickly locate the pull handle under stress. Thus, pull handle accessibility directly impacts user safety. [0040]In the first embodiment, the pull handle insertion direction is perpendicular to the user's limb. In the third embodiment, this direction is parallel to the limb. For example, when the cuff is on the ankle, the pull handle opening 2023376286

aligns with the leg's length. This allows faster and more intuitive access, improving emergency detachment. [0041]The above description provides detailed examples of preferred embodiments. However, these embodiments should not limit the scope of the disclosure. Modifications and substitutions may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

10

CLAIMS 17 Dec 2025

1. A surf leash attachment strap comprising:

an attachment strap body comprising a first section, a second section and a pull handle member, wherein, the first section is connected to a first end of the second section, an outer surface of the first section is provided with a first cooperating member for connecting a cord, a second end of the second section is 2023376286

connected to the pull handle member, the attachment strap body is integrally molded as a one-piece structure;

a first fixing member fixed on the first section of the attachment strap body; and

a second fixing member fixed on the second section of the attachment strap body, wherein the second fixing member is separably connected to the first fixing member.

2. The surf leash attachment strap of claim 1, wherein a first end of the first fixing member is fixed at one end of the first section of the attachment strap body away from the second section.

3. The surf leash attachment strap of claim 2, wherein the attachment strap body further comprises a contact member, which is at least partially attached to an inner surface of the first section of the attachment strap body and an inner surface of the first fixing member.

4. The surf leash attachment strap of claim 2, wherein when the first fixing member is connected to the second fixing member, a terminal end of the second fixing member at least partially covers the first end of the first fixing member, and the second end of the second section of the attachment strap body at least partially covers a first end of the first section.

5. The surf leash attachment strap of claim 1, wherein the first section, the second section, the first cooperating member and the pull handle member of the attachment strap body are formed in a one step process.

6. The surf leash attachment strap of claim 1, wherein the first section, the second section, the first cooperating member and the pull handle member of the attachment strap body are formed in a molding apparatus.

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7. The surf leash attachment strap of claim 1, wherein the first section is preformed 17 Dec 2025

as an arc, and/ or, at least a part of the second section is flexible.

8.The surf leash attachment strap of claim 1, wherein the second fixing member is at least partially attached to an inner surface of the second section of the attachment strap body.

9. The surf leash attachment strap of claim 1, wherein the second section of the attachment strap body is provided with a hollow portion extending along a length 2023376286

direction of the second section.

10. The surf leash attachment strap of claim 9, wherein the second section of the attachment strap body comprises a first arm and a second arm extending along the length direction of the second section, the hollow portion is formed between the first arm and the second arm, two ends of the pull handle member are respectively connected to the first arm and the second arm.

11. The surf leash attachment strap of claim 1, wherein the second section of the attachment strap body comprises a transition part and an intermediate arm, a first end of the intermediate arm is connected to the first section of the attachment strap body through the transition part, a second end of the intermediate arm is provided with the pull handle member, and a width of the intermediate arm is less than a width of the first section of the attachment strap body.

12. The surf leash attachment strap of claim 1, wherein after the attachment strap is attached to a human body part, an insertion direction of the pull handle member for a finger is parallel to or perpendicular to a length direction of the human body part.

13. The surf leash attachment strap of claim 1, wherein the attachment strap body is integrally formed from thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer.

14. A surf leash assembly comprising:

the surf leash attachment strap according to any one of claims 1 to 9;

a cord comprising a second cooperating member and a third cooperating member, wherein the second cooperating member is connected to the first cooperating member of the attachment strap; a board connector connected to the third cooperating member of the cord; a connecting ring connected to the board connector.

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15. The surf leash assembly of claim 14, wherein the board connector comprises: 17 Dec 2025

a board connector body comprising a fourth cooperating member and a first bearing portion, wherein the fourth cooperating member is connected to the third cooperating member of the cord, the board connector body is integrally molded as a one-piece structure;

a fixing component at least partially arranged on a side of the first bearing portion, and connected to the connecting ring. 2023376286

16. The surf leash assembly of claim 15, wherein the fixing component comprises a third fixing member, a connecting strip and a fourth fixing member, the third fixing member is attached to a side of the first bearing portion, one end of the fourth fixing member is connected to a first end of the third fixing member through the connecting strip, and a first surface of the fourth fixing member is separably connected to a surface of the third fixing member, the connecting ring is attached outside the connecting strip;

the board connector body further comprises a second bearing portion, the second bearing portion and the first bearing portion are integrally molded as a one-piece structure, and the second bearing portion is arranged at an outside position of the connecting strip.

17. The surf leash assembly of claim 16, wherein the board connector further comprises a fifth fixing member, one end of the fifth fixing member is connected to a second end of the third fixing member, and a surface of the fifth fixing member is separably connected to a second surface of the fourth fixing member.

18. The surf leash assembly of claim 16, wherein the first bearing portion and the second bearing portion are both flexible, and/or, a width of the second bearing portion is less than a width of the first bearing portion.

19. The surf leash assembly of claim 15, wherein the board connector body is formed in a one step process; and/or, the board connector body is formed in a molding apparatus.

20. The surf leash assembly of claim 15, wherein the board connector body is formed from thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer.

Figure 2 Figure 2

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